First Award of the Russian Front Medal

[gdfuseddie]

Does anyone know when the Russian Front Medal (Ostmedaille) was first awarded to soldiers? I am aware that the medal was introduced on 26th May 1942, but I'm wondering when the first awards were actually first made.

Cheers.

[Simon O.]

On paper at least, pretty soon after. That's why many award docs have dates from the summer of '42 even though the docs\medal themselves took much longer.

[erichcraciun]

AsI understand, the ribbon was first awarded for the very first awards before the actual medals were available. I have a number of Soldbuch entries that is just for the award or letters with the ribbon (I will post a photo later) stating that the medal will be delivered later.

[gdfuseddie]

Cheers for the replies. Would be good to see the photo to see an entry for such an early issue of the award.